In a highly anticipated matchup, the Denver Broncos will host the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round on Saturday, marking the first playoff game in Denver in ten years. Under the leadership of head coach Sean Payton, the Broncos have secured the top seed in the AFC. This game offers an opportunity for Payton to rejuvenate playoff success in the Mile High City.
The Bills are facing significant injury challenges, particularly with quarterback Josh Allen, who is nursing injuries to his right foot, left knee, and throwing hand. Despite these setbacks, Allen has expressed optimism about his recovery, stating he feels better as game day approaches.
Last year”s playoff encounter saw the Bills eliminate the Broncos with a decisive 31-7 victory. Payton reflected on that loss, recalling his determination to bring the postseason back to Denver, reminiscent of his early coaching days with the New Orleans Saints. He aims to replicate his previous success in achieving a Super Bowl victory.
Since that defeat, the Broncos have significantly improved their performance at home, winning 13 of their last 14 games and finishing the regular season with an impressive 8-1 record at Empower Field at Mile High. The only home loss this season came against the Jacksonville Jaguars, a team that had also been in playoff contention.
With several key players from the Bills sidelined, including safety Jordan Poyer and cornerback Maxwell Hairston, coach Sean McDermott must rely on his remaining roster to step up. The Bills” receiving corps has been severely impacted, with wide receivers Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers also placed on injured reserve this week. Allen remains confident in his teammates, stating, “I still trust that room completely.” He emphasized the need for the healthy receivers to rise to the occasion.
On the defensive side, the Broncos have made significant strides, now boasting a unit that is leading the league in sacks and red zone efficiency. All-Pro defensive tackle Zach Allen has been pivotal in this transformation, contributing to the team”s success in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, who has established himself with two dozen wins in his first two seasons, expressed relief about playing at home this time. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the Bills in dealing with the crowd noise at Empower Field.
As the game draws near, anticipation builds for a thrilling playoff showdown, with both teams aiming to advance further in the postseason. The resilience of the Bills will be tested against a formidable Broncos defense, while Denver looks to capitalize on their home-field advantage.
